Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Masters in Information Security– as the degree says, it is about securing information that is saved on the information systems. This degree teaches you on two core areas: one – algorithms, platforms, and methods of today’s information systems, two – best practices to ensure data safety in the systems by remaining secured from outside threats.

Master’s in Information Security Online Degree Types

Information security has become one of the fastest-growing jobs. With the increase in demand for the skillset, there is more enrollment happening in great numbers. Information Security comprises the only one-degree type that is a Masters of Science in Information Security.

The Master of Science in Information Security allows you to acquire advanced research skills and knowledge in a professional learning environment. A Master’s degree can give you the foundation of how you can apply the understanding throughout your professional life.

MS in Information Security Distance Learning

As mentioned earlier, the options to gain knowledge about information security knowledge has different options. One of the widely selected options is the MS in Information Security distance learning. Like any other formal education, the online classes also ensure that the right learnings are offered to you. Information theft has become a common scenario, and securing is a much-needed activity. For the same knowledge gained during the distance learning program also, you are taught about the security of data, computer technology, and other key competencies that are required for a successful career.

Specializations for an Information Security Master’s Degree

Information Security is a specialized field, and you can fine-tune this specialization and add more skills by customizing it with the other specializations like the following:

Curriculum and Skills Gained in an Information Security Program

Every program is carefully curated, and a curriculum is created. Even the Masters in Information Security online program is structured in a way that you are adept with the information security and fully aware of the real-life scenarios. The curriculum is usually a mix of both practical and theory lessons so that you will be able to apply your knowledge in the right way. Here is a list on how a curriculum would look:

Accreditation for Master’s in Information Security Online Programs

Accreditation is a formal recognition a University/Institution receives when they follow academic standards. This accreditation can happen nationally and regionally too. Apart from that, if you are pursuing an online program through these accredited institutions, then the Master’s degree has a better value in the market compared to your peers. Read here to know what accreditation is in detail, and the process involved.

The subject bodies accredit each program. Similarly, a Masters in Information Security online course is also accredited by its relative body like:

• FISMA: Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) is a Government developed accreditation agency that ensures the programs and curriculum followed the institutions are meeting the standards laid by the organization and the profession.

Information Security Master’s Program Admission Requirements

Before enrolling for a master’s program, you need to be aware of the admission requirements. Usually, most colleges/institutions have a similar or common condition, which you are required to submit for enrolling in Masters in Information Security Online. Here is the requirement that any university will be looking for:

Official transcripts of all graduate and undergraduate courses

Application form and fees

GMAT Test Format & scores

GMAT Test Registration

Letters of recommendation

Statement of Purpose

Online Master’s programs are affordable compared to other formats of Master’s programs. Even then, some individuals are interested in pursuing the program but unable to accommodate the fees due to various reasons. This is why many universities are now allowing different payment methods like student loans, Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), Tuition reimbursement, etc. You may be a professional, a part-time employer, a student, or an individual looking for a break in the Information Security field, and these payment gateways are your chance to secure a Masters in Information Security in your favorite college. There are different financing solutions to ease your budget issues. Read here to know more about this financial aid.

Scholarships for Information Security Students

The demand for Information Security students is high, and everyone is coming forward to make education accessible, and that is the reason why there are so many payment options offered. If you are someone who is looking for financial aid and Scholarship is the way you picked to finish your masters, then – first, you need to gather information regarding it. And for the same, below is the list of various scholarships available.

• AFIT Information Assurance Scholarships: This scholarship program is started by the Department of Defense Information to encourage individuals who are interested in Information Assurance and IT skills.
• (ISC)2 Women’s Scholarship: This Scholarship is dedicated to women encouraging them to be part of the technology world and improve their skills with the help of the Scholarship.
• ISSA Education Foundation Scholarships: This Scholarship is granted if you have information security-related experience. It also grants you a master’s degree in Information Security.
• SWSIS Scholarship Program: Scholarships for Women Studying Information Security (SWSIS) – similar to (ISC)² – this Scholarship as well is exclusive for women who are interested in starting their career or gaining the skill of Information Security.

The sheer information exchange happening through Technology, and the accessibility of the same has made it vulnerable to use and exploitation by some. To secure the information and data, the need for Information Security analysts is high. Here are some of the Information Security jobs that you can take up once you secure a Master’s in Information Security online.

According to PayScale, these are some of the job titles, responsibilities, and average salary information for an information security graduate

Even though a Master’s degree may help you secure a well-paid job, but certification enhances your skills and vouches that you can be a better candidate than many out there. Few organizations would require certifications in specific skills to ascertain if you are the right fit. For the same, adding on these stars to already merit is the right choice. Apart from that, Licensing is permitting to render services individually or as a company with the skills you gained over the years. 

Certifications and Licensing are different, but the goal is to give you better professional exposure and opportunities. Here is a list of best Information Security certifications:

• An online graduate certificate in Information Security: Information Security certification from DeVry University helps you gain information on competencies like cryptography, intrusion detection, legal issues, and so on. At the end of the certification, you will be adept with the skills required to function in a real-time scenario.
• Certified Information Security Manager: Through this certification, you will be a certified manager to manage, develop, and oversee security information systems. You will also be adept concerning the control, auditing, and security of information systems.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional: CISSP certification is an advanced-level for IT professionals who are seriously considering careers in Information Security.
• Certified Information Systems Auditor: CISA is the gold standard for IT professionals who are seeking practice in audit control, information security, and information assurance. 

Discussing common topics, having like-minded people, especially from the same field, gives an advantage for you to explore, learn new things, and share common ideas. Who better can understand our professional concerns and thought process than a peer? For the same, there are associations/communities/exhibitions that call in for all the individuals to a common platform. Here is a list of those common platforms:

• Association of Information Security Professionals: An independent cybersecurity association that believes in developing, supporting as well as enhancing industry technical competence and management expertise to promote the integrity, status, and interests of Information Security Professionals in Singapore.
• Information Security and Forensics Society (ISFS): ISFS was registered under the Hong Kong Societies Ordinance in May 2000. Our mission is to advocate and enforce professionalism, integrity, and innovation in Information Security and Computer Forensics in Hong Kong and the surrounding region.
• ISSA (Information Systems Security Association): The Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)® is a not-for-profit, international organization of information security professionals and practitioners. It provides educational forums, publications, and peer interaction opportunities that enhance the knowledge, skill, and professional growth of its members.
• Center for Internet Security: The Center for Internet Security, Inc. (CIS®) makes the connected world a safer place for people, businesses, and governments through our core competencies of collaboration and innovation.
• The SANS Institute: SANS is the most trusted and by far the largest source for information security, information security training, and security certification in the world. It also develops, maintains, and makes available at no cost, the most extensive collection of research documents about various aspects of information security, and it operates the Internet’s early warning system – the Internet Storm Center